Looking for a delicious and healthy meal that combines the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes, the hearty texture of quinoa, and the vibrant flavor of kale? These Sweet Potato, Kale, and Quinoa Fritters are the perfect solution. Packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor, these fritters make an excellent appetizer, snack, or even a main dish. Easy to make and versatile, they are a delightful addition to any meal plan. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to create these tasty fritters.
Ingredients
Fritters:
- 3 cups of sweet potato puree, equivalent to one large or two medium-sized sweet potatoes, stemmed and blended
- 2 cups cooked quinoa
- 2 cups Lacinato (Dino) kale, chopped chiffonade
- 2 eggs
- 3 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1/2 cup Panko Japanese style breadcrumbs (or any plain breadcrumbs; gluten-free options include ground old-fashioned oats or almond meal)
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 pinch smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 4-6 tablespoons grapeseed oil or coconut oil for pan frying
Dipping Sauce:
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 pinch black pepper
- Sriracha sauce, to taste
Method
- Prepare the Sweet Potatoes and Quinoa: Begin by steaming and pureeing the sweet potatoes until smooth. Prepare the quinoa following the package instructions, then allow it to cool.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the pureed sweet potatoes, cooked quinoa, and chopped kale. Add the eggs, cornstarch, Panko breadcrumbs, grated ginger, smoked paprika, black pepper, and kosher salt. Stir until all ingredients are well combined, forming a cohesive mixture.
- Shape the Fritters: Using your hands, form the mixture into small patties or fritters. Make sure to press the mixture firmly together to keep the fritters intact while cooking.
- Pan Fry the Fritters: Heat grapeseed or coconut oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot, gently add the fritters to the skillet. Cook them for approximately 3-4 minutes per side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Transfer the cooked fritters to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- Prepare the Dipping Sauce: While the fritters are cooking, prepare the dipping sauce by combining Greek yogurt, freshly grated ginger, salt, black pepper, and Sriracha sauce in a small bowl. Modify the amount of Sriracha sauce to achieve your preferred level of spiciness.
- Serve and Enjoy: Arrange the fritters on a serving platter and pair them with the prepared dipping sauce. Garnish with extra fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
Conclusion
Sweet Potato, Kale, and Quinoa Fritters are a delightful way to incorporate nutrient-dense ingredients into your diet. These fritters offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making them a hit with both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack, a flavorful appetizer, or a satisfying main dish, these fritters are a versatile and delicious option. Serve them with the tangy and spicy dipping sauce for an extra kick, and enjoy the blend of wholesome goodness in every bite.